UN chief urges diplomacy as Israel continues strikes across Lebanon
Mar 14th 2026
UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres, visiting Beirut, urged an end to fighting and launched a $325 million aid appeal for over 800,000 displaced people as Israel continues strikes and evacuation orders across large parts of Lebanon.
- Antonio Guterres said there is no military solution and called for diplomacy while warning southern Lebanon and southern Beirut risk severe destruction.
- The UN launched a $325 million flash appeal to help more than 800,000 people internally displaced since the conflict began on March 2.
- Israel has issued evacuation orders covering about 14 percent of Lebanon and continued air and artillery strikes that have killed civilians, including families in Sidon and residents in Bourj Hammoud.
- Lebanese health authorities report 826 killed and more than 2,000 wounded, including at least 65 women, 106 children and 31 paramedics, and say 12 health workers were killed in Burj Qalawiya.
- Lebanese leaders are forming an ambassador-level negotiating delegation for talks possibly in Cyprus or Paris while some factions demand a ceasefire before negotiations, and Israel and other international actors are reported to be involved in preparations.